A freight train carrying coal and gasoline collided with a tractor-trailer that traveled through a level crossing Tuesday morning in central Texas, triggering an explosion of fire that darkened the sky with smoke .
No one was injured in the collision in Cameron, about 130 miles south of Dallas, authorities said, but the resulting explosion, which was caught on video by passers-by and residents was a sight.
“Fortunately, everyone was able to escape before the explosion,” said Brian Washko, press secretary for the Texas Department of Public Safety, according to the Cameron Herald.
At least one barn has burned down and some neighboring houses have suffered heat damage, Cameron Fire Chief Henry Horelica told a press conference, as reported by KVUE radio station.
The semi-truck did not slow down as it approached the crossing, although the crossing arms were lowered and another vehicle was already waiting, state officials said at the press conference.
The driver of the truck managed to avoid colliding with the other vehicle, but a BSNF train crashed into the truck, causing a huge explosion, authorities said.
Milam County Sheriff Chris White said the mixed freight train was carrying coal and gasoline in several cars and the rear of the train contained hazardous materials that did not spill after the collision.
“There is no more threat at this point,” White said.
Several fire departments were attempting to contain the blaze before putting it out on Tuesday night, Horelica said.
Contribute: The Associated Press
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